Adriatic2Alps photography tour

This incredibly picturesque tour includes the most beautiful natural and cultural sights of Slovenia and Croatia. The first part of the trip is focused on the loveliest section of the Adriatic Sea – South Dalmatia and the islands. Dubrovnik and the historic Dalmatian towns are a photographer's dream. With its stable weather and scenic landscapes it will be difficult to drag ourselves away from the coast, but two national parks await: Plitvice Lakes and Triglav National Park. The Julian Alps with their mighty peaks, spectacular valleys and clear rivers and lakes are in stark contrast to the Adriatic coast and nature will enrapture us again. A visit to Ljubljana, a surprisingly vibrant and beautiful capital, makes a perfect conclusion to the trip.

DAY 1: Arrival at Dubrovnik

Arrive at Dubrovnik airport and transfer to the city. Orientation and tour details. We start our photo shoot in the old city of Dubrovnik with its magnificent old palaces, mansions and churches. At our welcome dinner we will discuss the itinerary in greater detail and get to know each other. Overnight: Private villa, D

DAYS 2–3: Dubrovnik

We have two days to explore Dubrovnik and its vicinity. There will be enough time to take photos of the old city centre and its streets, which are still permeated with a medieval spirit as well as a republican grandeur. A stroll around the city walls and defense towers offers great photo opportunities. It will be possible to visit the nearby islets, ideal for a relaxing break in the gentle sea breeze. In the evenings we will enjoy music played by street performers and indulge in seafood at one of the numerous great restaurants. Overnight: Private villa, BD

DAYS 4–6: Hvar Island

Our itinerary includes arguably the most scenic island in the Adriatic, known for its lavender fields. The small town of Hvar is one of the most beautiful on the Adriatic islands. The old town architecture as well as the nearby Pakleni otoci (Hell Islands) beg to be photographed. Two days on the island will also allow for some rest and a dip in the sea. Overnight: Hotel, Hvar town centre, BD

DAY 7: Split

We head to Split, the Dalmatian capital, by ferry. Approaching the city we will enjoy the views of the magnificent palaces against the backdrop of the mountains. We will admire the Diocletian’s Palace, a UNESCO World Heritage Monument, and sip some ice coffee or a cold beer on the lively promenade. This will be the last opportunity for a photo of a sunset over the Adriatic Sea as we head inland the following day. Overnight: Hotel, Split old town, BD

DAY 8: Plitvice Lakes NP

Leaving Dalmatia we head into the mountainous regions of Croatia. Hidden in the mighty woods is another natural jewel of this wonderful country – the Plitvice Lakes. To make the best of the soft light and fewer visitors, we will explore the lakes, waterfalls and cataracts late in the afternoon and early in the morning. With the national park also being famous for rich flora and fauna, seeing birds and other inhabitants of the woods is not uncommon. Overnight: Hotel at NP HQ, BD

DAYS 9–10: Lake Bled

Our next destination is located in Slovenia, where the beautiful glacial Lake Bled and its iconic tiny island lies amidst the Alps. We will visit the island by a traditional 'pletna' boat. Bled Castle on the cliff above offers superb views of the lake, and there will be plenty of opportunities to capture landscape photos from this vantage point. Nearby Lake Bohinj is also of glacial origin but it has a very different setting with high peaks all around. After a brief stop to try some canoeing on the lake, we will head to the picturesque Savica waterfall. On our way back we will pass through many small traditional villages. Finally, after a long day of photographing, we will sample one of Bled’s famous “kremsnita” cream cakes and renew our energy levels. Overnight: Farmhouse at the heart of Bled, BD

DAYS 11–12: Soca River Valley

We head to the highest mountain pass in the Julian Alps, Vrsic; it affords beautiful views of the highest Slovenian mountains, and as we descend to the south we will meet the emerald waters of the Soca River. The river and its valley will be our base for the next two days as we explore all the hidden corners of the area, which offers numerous gorges, waterfalls, WWI remnants, and much more. Keen wildlife photographers can try their luck with Alpine Ibex, a wild mountain goat, which is the king of the Julian Alps. From here we can take a trip to the highest Slovenian road to the Mangart Saddle at an altitude of over 2000 m. Overnight: Family owned pension at the heart of Bovec, BD

DAYS 13–14: Ljubljana

Driving across the Notranjska region we will arrive at Ljubljana, the capital of Slovenia. Ljubljana is a charming city where everything is within walking distance. The city offers an array of cuisine, you can eat at a traditional “gostilna” (inn), dine at a fine French restaurant, or enjoy delicious Italian fare. In three days we will cover all of the city’s highlights: the Baroque churches, the lively outdoor market place, Ljubljana Castle, the romantic Ljubljanica River, and the masterpieces of renowned Slovenian architect, Joze Plecnik. After a long day of snapping it will be great to have some local beer along the Ljubljanica River promenade. Overnight: Hotel, Ljubljana town centre, BD

DAY 15: Departure from Ljubljana

After breakfast check-out from the hotel. Transfer to Ljubljana airport. End of tour, B

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